This is an excellent example of a rare British infantry officer’s 1892 pattern sword made by Septimus John Pillin.
The British 1892 pattern infantry sword marked the end of an era for the brass Gothic hilted swords and is rare because most 1892 infantry swords were re-hilted in 1895 to conform to the new regulation pattern.
The 835mm thrusting blade is of dumbbell form, having a symmetrical cross section with a flat spine and belly and a short central fuller. The spine bears the Pillin serial number 99862. The blade becomes wedge shaped for approximately two-thirds of its length and terminates in a narrow spear point. The 1892 blade is the ultimate thrusting design and its use continues today with the current, 1897 pattern hilt.
The blade is in excellent condition with minimal age related discolouration and is deeply etched with panels of foliate scrollwork, the royal coat of arms and domed crown of Queen Victoria, crossed laurel and palm fronds and a cartouche containing the initials of the owner. The obverse is similarly etched and includes the crowned cypher of Queen Victoria above crossed laurel and palm, all bordered with intricate geometric and foliate scrollwork. The ricasso bears the retailer’s details, “Jones & Co. 6 Regent Street, London.” The obverse bears Septimus John Pillin’s brass proof stud.
The Gothic brass hilt is in excellent condition and retains its original gilding. The guard bears the VR cypher of Queen Victoria. The rear third of the smooth back strap has the typical acanthus style decoration of the infantry, with a stepped oval pommel and button. The shagreen grip is in good condition and the silver wire binding is intact but missing 4 turns of one strand. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its polished steel scabbard. The scabbard is in good condition with a pale patina and very shallow pitting on the lower third. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an excellent example of a very hard to find late Victorian British infantry sword by a top maker.
